中国稀土重拳出击，欧美全线崩盘，连NASA都撑不住了

Core Viewpoint - China has shifted from passive resistance to active retaliation in the escalating trade war with the U.S., using rare earths as a strategic leverage point, causing significant global political and economic upheaval [2][6]. Group 1: China's Actions - On October 9, China's Ministry of Commerce announced strengthened controls on rare earth exports, adding five new types to the existing seven and implementing a "0.1% rule" for heavy rare earth metals in certain materials, marking a historic first for strict regulation of trace rare earths [6]. - Following this, Chinese customs issued four new announcements that comprehensively restricted the export of rare earth materials, lithium batteries, and artificial graphite anode materials, leading to turmoil in the global technology supply chain [6][9]. Group 2: Impact on Global Players - The primary target of China's rare earth retaliation is perceived to be the U.S., but the European Union is the actual victim, particularly countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and France, which rely heavily on manufacturing and had hoped to lead the global clean energy transition [6][11]. - The semiconductor industry, especially the Dutch company ASML, which relies heavily on rare earths, felt immediate pressure, prompting calls for negotiations with China [7]. - The U.S. was caught off guard, with critical projects like NASA's lunar missions and Boeing's military contracts facing disruptions due to the rare earth controls [7][11]. Group 3: European Response and Challenges - The EU's attempt to retaliate found it in a difficult position, as the U.S. preemptively implemented sanctions that could affect European companies with Chinese ties, leading to a "double bind" situation for Europe [9]. - China also announced special port fees for vessels with significant U.S. investment, further complicating the global shipping industry and impacting European nations [9]. Group 4: Importance of Rare Earths - The situation has highlighted the critical role of rare earths in modern industries, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, wind energy, aerospace, and high-tech products, with China controlling nearly 90% of global rare earth refining capacity [11]. - Japan, despite efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earths, still relies on them for 60% of its needs, reflecting the broader vulnerability of nations reliant on these materials [12].